Cardozo: Strength in Decisive Moments Key to Minimizing Errors Against AS FAR
Miguel Cardozo, Mamelodi Sundowns coach, confirmed that his team will approach the second leg against AS FAR in the CAF Champions League final with a clear mindset and high concentration, fully aware of the match's difficulty and importance.
Cardozo stated in the pre-match press conference that his team must deal with AS FAR in the correct manner, explaining: “Every moment we play without the ball means you have to defend to regain possession. Sometimes, defending can be the most aggressive moment in your playing style.”
The Portuguese coach added that tactical discipline and commitment on the field are essential for success, noting that if players are committed, strong, and aggressive in defence, moments of possession will come naturally, helping to align with the team's identity.
Discussing game specifics, Cardozo stressed the importance of strength in crucial moments, saying: “It is very important that we are strong in decisive moments, and we must also be very strong in set pieces, both defensively and offensively. This way, you can minimize errors.”
The Sundowns coach also touched on the psychological and fan aspects, explaining that players always prepare for such big matches: “Regarding the fans, we work throughout our professional careers to play matches like these. The difficult part is when you go to play in a place where there is no support, no fans, no friends, and you feel like you are playing without meaning, but we prepare ourselves for such moments.”
Cardozo concluded his remarks by emphasizing the importance of representing the African continent in the best possible way, stating: “Tomorrow, we will once again be the image of Africa to the world, and I hope that the same spirit I saw among the players in the first match remains. We must never forget that the world is watching us, and Africa must be represented with the highest principles in the game.”
The match will take place tomorrow, Sunday, at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, starting at 8:00 PM, knowing that the first leg ended with Sundowns winning by one goal to nil.
